Take up the reins: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Take up the reins” mean?

"Take up the reins" means to assume control or responsibility for something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

After the CEO resigned, she took up the reins of the company.

Example

He decided to take up the reins and lead the team to victory.

Example

It's time for you to take up the reins and manage your own finances

Is “Take up the reins” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Take up the reins” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Take up the reins” effectively in context?

You can use "Take up the reins" to describe someone assuming control or responsibility for a situation. It emphasizes the idea of taking charge and leading. For example, if a manager leaves the company, you might say, 'After the CEO resigned, she "took up the reins" of the company.'

• 1. Leadership

  He decided to take up the reins and lead the team to victory.

• 2. Personal Responsibility

  It's time for you to take up the reins and manage your own finances.

• 3. Family or Household

  After their parents passed away, she had to take up the reins and take care of her younger siblings.

Similar phrases to “Take up the reins”:

Grab the bull by the horns

To take decisive action and confront a difficult situation head-on

Example

She decided to grab the bull by the horns and address the issue directly.

Assume the mantle

To take on the responsibilities or duties of a position

Example

After the retirement of the principal, she assumed the mantle of leadership.

Step into the breach

To take over or fill a role or position in a time of need or crisis

Example

When the lead actor fell ill, he stepped into the breach and took on the role.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Take up the reins” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Take up the reins" can be traced back to horseback riding. The reins are the straps attached to a horse's bridle that the rider holds to control the horse's direction and speed. When someone takes up the reins, they assume control or responsibility for a situation, just like a rider takes control of a horse by holding the reins.

Is “Take up the reins” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Take up the reins" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe assuming control or responsibility for a situation, whether it's in a professional or personal context.

What tone does “Take up the reins” have?

"Take up the reins" conveys a tone of leadership and responsibility. It implies that someone is stepping up to take charge and guide others.

Can “Take up the reins” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Take up the reins" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of assuming control or responsibility. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She decided to "take up the reins" and lead the project.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "take up the reins"!' to imply readiness to take control.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• take control
• assume responsibility
• lead the way
• be in charge
• shoulder the burden

Antonyms

• pass the buck
• shirk responsibility
• avoid leadership
• abdicate control
• step down